Lance Carson
Incense is a combination of aromatic ingredients that create a pleasant scent when burned. The basic materials used in incense include any plant, resin, or wood, as long as their scent is pleasant when burned. The final component of incense is the binder, which acts as a glue that holds the incense together and allows it to be shaped. Binders can be made from plant gums, wood, or even animal dung. There are a variety of resins and gums that can be used as binders, such as gum arabic, guar gum, xanthan gum, and gum tragacanth. Pine resin, frankincense, and myrrh are also commonly used as binders and bases for incense.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose of resin in incense | Resin is used as an aromatic, supplying the scent when burned. |
| Using resin as a binder | Resin can be used as a binder, with stickier resins requiring less quantity. |
| Types of resin | Commercial resins include frankincense and myrrh. Resin can also be gathered from conifer tree sap. |
| Preparation | Resin can be frozen, pulverized, and mixed with dry ingredients to prevent stickiness. |
| Other binders | Binders can be gum-based or wood-based. Examples include guar gum, xanthan gum, joss powder, and marshmallow root powder. |
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What You'll Learn
Pine resin is a common binder
Pine resin is often used as a base for incense mixtures, providing an aromatic foundation for other ingredients. It has a strong, uplifting scent that invokes the power and presence of trees, the savannah, and the forest. The aromatics of pine are also believed to have healing properties for the skin and respiratory system.
When using pine resin as a binder, it is important to consider the stickiness of the resin. Stickier resins require less material to bind the incense together, while drier, less sticky resins like myrrh may require a larger quantity. Experimentation is key when working with different resins, as the ratios can vary depending on the ingredients used.
In addition to its binding properties, pine resin can also be used to create a dough-like consistency for incense. This can be achieved by mixing the resin with other ingredients such as herbs, roots, or powders. The resulting mixture can be rolled into pea-sized balls and allowed to dry for several days or weeks, depending on the humidity.
Overall, pine resin is a versatile and effective binder for incense-making, offering both functional and aromatic benefits to the final product.
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Frankincense and myrrh are commercial resins
Frankincense and myrrh are both resins, or dried tree sap, that are harvested from trees of the genus Boswellia (frankincense) and Commiphora (myrrh). These trees are native to Somalia and Ethiopia and belong to the botanical family Burseraceae, commonly known as the incense tree family. The process of harvesting frankincense and myrrh is labour-intensive and contributes to their value. The sap is extracted by cutting the tree's bark and allowing the sap to ooze out and dry on the tree for several months. The hardened sap is then collected and used as incense.
Frankincense and myrrh have been prized throughout history and are commercially available today. They are known for their pleasant fragrances and have been used in religious and cultural ceremonies in the West since ancient times. Additionally, they have medicinal properties and have been used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to treat chronic diseases, exhibiting anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. The combination of frankincense and myrrh creates a blend with synergistic pharmacological effects, enhancing their therapeutic benefits.
When making homemade incense, resins like frankincense and myrrh can be used as aromatics, providing the primary scent when burned. It is important to use caution when experimenting with resins due to their potent nature. They should be added sparingly, and testing is recommended to ensure a pleasant aroma when burned. The type of wood used can also impact the fragrance, with options such as sandalwood, pine, and cedar available.
In addition to resins, a binder is a crucial component of incense-making. Binders act as a glue that holds the incense together and allows for shaping. While various substances can be used as binders, resins themselves can also function as binders. Pine resin, for example, can be used as a binder, although it may require a solvent or heat to be effective. Other natural binders include gum arabic, gum tragacanth, honey, water, and dried fruit soaked in wine.
When creating homemade incense, the ratio of ingredients is essential for achieving the desired consistency and aroma. Experimentation is often necessary to get the ratios right, as different resins and binders have varying levels of stickiness and potency. The ratio of resin to binder can also affect the burning properties of the incense, with more resin requiring the addition of makko or charcoal to aid combustion.
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Gum binders are more powerful than wood binders
Incense is any plant matter that is burned for its aromatic and/or spiritual properties. It is derived from the Latin verb 'incendere', which means 'to burn'. Incense-making involves combining aromatic ingredients, a base, and a binder. The binder is a form of glue that holds the incense together in the desired shape.
There are two types of binders: gum binders and wood binders. Gum binders, such as guar gum or xanthan gum, are more powerful than wood binders. Gum binders are much stronger than wood binders, and a typical incense recipe will use just 1/8 teaspoon of binder for every 2 tablespoons of material. The strength of gum binders means that adding too much to a recipe can cause it to bind so strongly that it can't burn.
Wood binders, on the other hand, are easier to work with and can act as a base material in addition to being a binder. Common wood binders include joss powder (sometimes called jiggit) and tabu no ki (which is sometimes, incorrectly, called makko). However, wood binders are not as strong as gum binders, and a significant amount of wood binder is required in recipes—up to 75% in some cases.
Resins, such as frankincense or myrrh, can also be used as binders. They are usually very powerful, so they should be used sparingly. When using a new resin, caution should be exercised, and only a small amount should be added to the blend. Resins can be purchased or gathered from conifer tree sap. If gathering resin, it is important to collect only the hard resin from the ground and not the soft, sticky sap, as this is still serving a protective function on the tree.
Other common binders include honey, water, or dried fruit soaked in wine.
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Common wood binders include joss powder and tabu no ki
Binders are a type of "glue" that holds the incense together and allows it to be formed into various shapes. They range from plant gums to animal dung, with dozens of resins and gums that can be used for this purpose. Gum Arabic or acacia is the most common and ancient binder, but it is very sticky and tough to work with. Gum Tragacanth is another option, known as the best available bonding agent with a mild scent.
While gum binders are much more powerful, wood binders are easier to work with and often serve as a base material in addition to their binding function. Common wood binders include joss powder and tabu no ki. Joss powder, also known as makko, jiggit, or jiggit, is the bark of a tree (litsea glutinosa) that grows throughout Asia. It is one of the most popular wood incense binders globally due to its economical price and versatility with many incense blends.
Tabu no ki, also known as makko, is a natural glue that allows you to shape incense into any form. It is easy to blend and handle when wet, and it is scentless, so it won't interfere with the scent of the aromatic herbs and resins in your incense. It is a good choice for novice incense makers as it is forgiving and easy to work with.
Resins, such as pine resin, can also be used as binders and are quite effective and aromatic. However, they tend to be sticky, and the stickier the resin, the less you need to use. Experimentation is key when working with resins to get the right ratios.
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Binders can be activated with water-based liquids
Binders are a crucial component of incense-making, acting as a glue that holds the incense together and allows it to be shaped into various forms. While there are several types of binders available, such as gum binders and wood binders, it is important to note that not all binders are compatible with water-based liquids for activation. Here is a detailed guide on using water-based liquids to activate binders for incense-making:
Choosing the Right Binder
When selecting a binder for your incense, it is essential to consider its compatibility with water-based liquids. Gum binders, such as guar gum, tragacanth gum, and xanthan gum, are commonly used and can be activated with water. These gum binders vary in strength and scent, so choose one that best suits your needs. For example, guar gum and tragacanth gum have strong scents, while xanthan gum is more affordable but may be less effective. Makko powder, a traditional Japanese binder, is another option that pairs well with fragrant ingredients and burns effectively.
Preparing the Binder Mixture
Once you have selected your binder, you will need to mix it with a water-based liquid to activate it. While plain water can be used, you can also explore other options such as tea, coffee, milk, fruit juices, or herbal teas. Keep in mind that the choice of liquid can enhance the overall fragrance of your incense, so choose something that complements your desired scent. Additionally, ensure that your mixture achieves a stiff dough-like consistency. It should be crumbly when dry but stick together when squeezed.
Working with Resin
If you plan to incorporate resins into your incense, it is important to note that they can significantly impact the consistency of your liquid mixture. Resins tend to make the liquid go hard and lumpy quickly, so work swiftly when mixing. To avoid a sticky mess, a helpful tip is to freeze your resins before grinding them with your dry ingredients. Commercial resins such as frankincense or myrrh can be purchased, or you can opt for a more sustainable approach by gathering resin from the base of conifer trees.
Drying and Storage
After forming your incense mixture into the desired shape, it is crucial to allow adequate drying time. Depending on the humidity of your environment, the drying process can take several days to a couple of weeks. Remember to turn your incense periodically to ensure even drying. Once completely dry, store your incense in a safe place until you are ready to burn it and evoke the scents and memories associated with it.
In summary, creating incense with binders that can be activated by water-based liquids is a simple yet satisfying process. By choosing the right binder, preparing the mixture, effectively incorporating resins, and allowing proper drying time, you can craft incense that not only smells delightful but also holds a special connection to your senses and surroundings.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, resin can be used as a binder for incense. Frankincense and myrrh are commonly used commercial resins, while pine resin is another popular choice.
Gum binders, such as guar gum or xanthan gum, are commonly used. Gum binders are more powerful than wood binders but adding too much can prevent the incense from burning. Wood binders, such as joss powder or "tabu no ki" (also known as "makko"), are easier to work with and often act as a base material in addition to being a binder.
The binder acts as a glue that holds the incense together and allows you to shape it as you please.
A typical incense recipe uses about 1/8 teaspoon of binder for every 2 tablespoons of material.
Yes, you must add water or another water-based liquid to "activate" the binder. This can include tea, coffee, milk, fruit juices, or herbal teas.
